Melasma

Melasma is a skin condition presenting as brown patches usually on the face of adults. A change in hormonal status may trigger melasma. It is commonly associated with pregnancy and called chloasma, or the ?mask of pregnancy?. Both sides of the face are usually affected, and the most common sites of involvement are the cheeks, bridge of nose, forehead, and upper lip.

This condition is mainly found in adult women and the exact cause is not known. However there is an association with pregnancy,oral contraceptives excessive ultrviolet light exposure and hereditary factors. It is not contagious but can be quite cosmetically embarrassing.